Sedona, Arizona is stunning year-round—towering red rock formations, endless blue skies, and some of the best hiking in the Southwest. But depending on when you visit, the weather can feel completely different. This month-by-month guide breaks down temperatures, rainfall, and what to expect each season, helping you choose the perfect time for your trip.
Sedona Weather Overview
- Climate type: High desert, semi-arid
- Altitude: ~4,350 ft (1,326 m)
- Seasons: Mild winters, warm summers, short monsoon season
- Best overall months: March–May & September–November
Sedona Weather by Month
January
- High / Low: 55°F / 30°F (13°C / -1°C)
- Conditions: Cool days, cold nights, occasional light snow.
- Good for: Fewer crowds, winter photography, calm hiking days.
February
- High / Low: 60°F / 33°F (16°C / 1°C)
- Conditions: Slightly warmer, crisp mornings, possible light rain.
- Good for: Outdoor activities without the spring rush.
March
- High / Low: 65°F / 36°F (18°C / 2°C)
- Conditions: Spring begins, breezy afternoons, longer daylight.
- Good for: Prime hiking season & sightseeing.
April
- High / Low: 73°F / 41°F (23°C / 5°C)
- Conditions: Warm but not hot, very little rain.
- Good for: Jeep tours, vortex sites, sunrise hikes.
May
- High / Low: 82°F / 49°F (28°C / 10°C)
- Conditions: Dry, sunny, summer approaching.
- Good for: All outdoor adventures—peak weather.
June
- High / Low: 93°F / 57°F (34°C / 14°C)
- Conditions: Hot afternoons, cooler evenings.
- Good for: Early morning hikes; avoid midday heat.
July
- High / Low: 96°F / 63°F (35°C / 17°C)
- Conditions: Hottest month + monsoon rains begin.
- Good for: Swimming holes, photography after storms.
August
- High / Low: 93°F / 62°F (34°C / 17°C)
- Conditions: Stormy afternoons, muggy by desert standards.
- Good for: Dramatic clouds, waterfalls, nighttime stargazing.
September
- High / Low: 88°F / 55°F (31°C / 13°C)
- Conditions: Cooler evenings; monsoon winds down.
- Good for: Sunset hikes and fall itineraries.
October
- High / Low: 77°F / 45°F (25°C / 7°C)
- Conditions: Crisp mornings, warm afternoons, low humidity.
- Good for: Peak fall color at Oak Creek.
November
- High / Low: 64°F / 34°F (18°C / 1°C)
- Conditions: Cool and calm, occasional early frost.
- Good for: Quiet trails, budget travelers.
December
- High / Low: 56°F / 28°F (13°C / -2°C)
- Conditions: Wintry but mild compared to most places; holiday lights glow against the red rocks.
- Good for: Scenic winter getaways.
Sedona Weather by Month (Table)
| Month | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 55 | 30 | Cool, occasional light snow |
| February | 60 | 33 | Crisp with light rain |
| March | 65 | 36 | Breezy, spring begins |
| April | 73 | 41 | Warm, dry |
| May | 82 | 49 | Sunny, ideal weather |
| June | 93 | 57 | Hot afternoons |
| July | 96 | 63 | Hottest month, monsoon begins |
| August | 93 | 62 | Stormy afternoons, humid |
| September | 88 | 55 | Cooling, monsoon fades |
| October | 77 | 45 | Crisp, fall colors |
| November | 64 | 34 | Cool, quiet |
| December | 56 | 28 | Mild winter |
Best Time to Visit Sedona
- For Hiking: March–May & late September–November. Perfect temperatures, clear skies, and manageable crowds.
- For Photography: July–August (monsoon clouds), October (fall color). Storm clouds and golden leaves add dramatic contrast to the red rocks.
- For Budget Travel: January, February, November, early December. Lower hotel rates and quieter trails.
What to Pack for Each Season
Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Warm jacket
- Beanie & gloves
- Waterproof hiking boots
Spring (Mar–May)
- Light layers
- Sun protection
- Daypack for longer hikes
Summer (Jun–Aug)
- Electrolytes & hydration pack
- Breathable clothing
- Rain jacket (monsoon season)
Fall (Sep–Nov)
- Light jacket for evenings
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Camera for fall foliage
Final Tips for Visiting Sedona
- Mornings and evenings are always cooler due to high elevation.
- During monsoon season, expect sudden downpours between 2–6 PM.
- Trails can become slippery after rain—especially in Oak Creek Canyon.
- Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography and comfortable temperatures.
10 FAQs About Sedona Weather
1. What is the best month to visit Sedona?
March–May and September–November offer the most comfortable temperatures and ideal hiking conditions.
2. Does Sedona get snow?
Yes, but only lightly. Snowfall is occasional in winter (mainly December–February), and it usually melts by midday.
3. How hot does Sedona get in summer?
Summer highs often reach 90–98°F (32–37°C), especially in June and July. Evenings are much cooler due to Sedona’s elevation.
4. What is Sedona’s monsoon season?
Monsoon season runs from July through mid-September, bringing short but intense afternoon thunderstorms.
5. Is Sedona humid?
Most of the year, humidity is low. Only during monsoon season does it feel slightly humid.
6. When is Sedona the most crowded?
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) bring peak tourism because of perfect weather.
7. Are trails open year-round in Sedona?
Yes. Most trails remain open year-round, though some may temporarily close due to rain, snow, or flash flood risks.
8. Are winter hikes in Sedona safe?
Yes—just be prepared for icy patches in shaded areas and bring layers. Midday winter temperatures are often mild.
9. What should I pack for Sedona?
Layers, sunscreen, a hydration pack, sturdy hiking shoes, and in summer, rain gear for monsoon storms.
10. How cold does it get at night in Sedona?
Even in summer, nights can drop to 55–65°F (13–18°C). In winter, nighttime temps may fall to 25–35°F (-4–2°C).